History has been made in media watchdog Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa) Malawi chapter following the election of Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS) head of news and current affairs, Teleza Ndanga as its Chairperson, the first woman to head the media body since its establishment.

Tereza Ndanga thankful to journalist for the ‘vote of confidence’ as Miss Malawi chairperson .-photo by Lisa Vintulla, Mana

The elections were held on Saturday at Lilongwe Capital City Motel following the expiry of the three-year term of the current team, which is being headed by Thom Khanje.

There were two camps comprising Teresa Ndanga, Cliff Kawanga and Mandy Pondani (TCM), against that of Frank Phiri, Sellina Kainja and Chimwemwe Njoloma (FSC) vying to take over positions. Ndanga was battling it out with media consultant Phiri on the position of chairperson.

On the other hand, Kainja and Kawanga were competiting for the position of vice-chairperson while Pondani and Njoloma vied for executive membership.

During the polls, Ndanga got 227 votes against Phiri who got 165 votes.

In her acceptance speech, Ndanga dismissed allegations that her camp had been funded by any political party.

Ndanga thanked the entire media fraternity for giving her “vote of confidence” and pledged to serve the media industry well without favoritism.

“I am happy that I have made it and I thank God for making it Possible, God was with us when we were starting the journey and I thank each one of you who choose to vote for us this is what we had asked for and today has happened,” she said.

Ndanga also emphasised the need for the two camps to bury the hatchet and work towards reviving the organisation, saying “let us work as one entity without divisions.”

Ndanga said her work is cut out as she rolls out her plan of action for media development in the country.

Phiri conceded the defeat, hugged Ndanga and wished her well as she is taking a challenge in the new office.

He also reiterated that he will work hand in hand with Ndanga for the betterment of the media industry.

“I congratulate Teleza Ndanga for winning the elections, we are all media practitioners and we need to forge ahead together, let us work together and change things,” he said

Ndanga fought tooth and nail for the position and finally got it, according to Frank Phiri.

Congrats Teleza. It”s victory for your family; particularly your Mum for bringing you up into an adorable lady, a darling to millions of your listeners. Indeed, God Bless Mama Ndanga, the breast that fed you. May God favour, guide and protect you in all your undertakings as a fearless journalist and during your tenure of office in that hot seat.